Nakshi Kantha

JSC English – Unit 1 (A glimpse of our culture)

Nakshi Kantha

Nakshi Kantha is a kind of embroidered quilt. The name was taken from the Bengali word ‘nakshi’ which means artistic pattern. It is a kind of traditional craft and is said to be indigenous to Bangladesh and West Bengal in India. The art has been practiced in rural Bengal for centuries. The name ‘nakshi kantha’ became popular after the poet Jasimuddin’s poem ‘Nakshi Kanthar Math’ was published in 1929.

Traditional kanthas are made for family use. Old or new cloth and thread are used to make these quilts. Mymensingh, Jamalpur, Rajshahi, Faridpur, Bogra and Jessore are most famous for this craft. Now it is produced commercially. You can find them in many expensive handicraft shops in cities. The quilts are now in great demand because of the colourful patterns and designs embroidered on them.